Best year for Boxster S?

[dghii]

I don't get it...
You are on a 986 forum so the majority of members have cars that are now 14 to 21 years old. With an $80K budget, you should be looking for a newer car, maybe even on a forum that has more members with newer cars.

Most of us would be happy to sell our cars and keep you under your budget by a bit!

[78F350]

"Best" Best what? Fun, reliability, prestige, track toy, investment, daily driver...?
Tell us more about why you are asking the question and we will direct you to how you should spend your money.

I'm guessing you're not a complete troll/spammer because you replied to a question already, in context.

My best answer to the question is: 2004 in GT Silver Metallic with a Cocoa Brown Leather interior. Why? The last of the 986s and of the 'analog' Porsches. Rare color combo because it was limited production, not limited taste. They have held their value well compared with the other Boxster production.

[Oli]

Originally Posted by 78F350

"Best" Best what? Fun, reliability, prestige, track toy, investment, daily driver...?
Tell us more about why you are asking the question and we will direct you to how you should spend your money.

I'm guessing you're not a complete troll/spammer because you replied to a question already, in context.

My best answer to the question is: 2004 in GT Silver Metallic with a Cocoa Brown Leather interior. Why? The last of the 986s and of the 'analog' Porsches. Rare color combo because it was limited production, not limited taste. They have held their value well compared with the other Boxster production.

Every range of P cars have particular versions that are more desirable and less troublesome (ims). Investment quality would be a plus and would definitely work into the decision. Not a daily driver as nearly everyone in the PNW puts their vehicle up for the winter.
Would the Spyder fit the bill?

[kk2002s]

NOT an investment, driving fun and for some DIY hobby.
Your budget gives you a lot of options. Being that this is a 986 forum that is going to be the perspective and familiarity bias you will get here.
Personally with your budget, 2004ish 911 turbo. AWD so you don't have to layup in the winter
I could never comprehend spending $55k-$65k on a new 986 but people did just that and someone did on my boxster
You need to tell us a bit more of your intentions:
Are you a DIY person? Track days? My knee jerk is get 3rd generation 2009+, past the IMSB

[jdraupp]

Originally Posted by Oli

Every range of P cars have particular versions that are more desirable and less troublesome (ims). Investment quality would be a plus and would definitely work into the decision. Not a daily driver as nearly everyone in the PNW puts their vehicle up for the winter.
Would the Spyder fit the bill?

The spyder is the most pure version of what the boxster should be, sans fluff like door handles and dash shrouds and automatic roofs. Plus they are rare so you're likely holding on to a bit more of a collector's item. If you're looking to avoid IMS, look for a 2009 or newer with the DFI 9A1 engine. I'd personally recommend stopping just before you get to the turbo 4 718. Especially if you own a 76 911, you're going to be let down by the Subaru sound if you buy a 17 or newer.

[DWBOX2000]

2000, 1st year awesomeness. Though a glass window would be nice. What year did the ims bearing become a big swap job to replace? Not that they need to be replaced, but it's something to consider if your the worrying type.

[paulofto]

Originally Posted by DWBOX2000

What year did the ims bearing become a big swap job to replace?

Half way through 2005 up to 2008.

For 986 get a 2003 or 2004.
For 987 get a 2009 to 2012

[sfkjeld]

Originally Posted by DWBOX2000

2000, 1st year awesomeness. Though a glass window would be nice. What year did the ims bearing become a big swap job to replace? Not that they need to be replaced, but it's something to consider if your the worrying type.

Like countless Boxster and 996 owners, I lost a perfect 2000 S with 33k mi about 10 years ago due to IMS failure. I would say that if you still have the factory IMS and are not worried about it, you are not paying attention.

[husker boxster]

Based on your budget, I would recommend a 2011 or 2012 Boxster Spyder. They will retain more of their value than most Boxsters. Prices range from $50-55K and are very dependent on mileage (very low mileage brings higher prices and cars with 25K+ mi on the lower end).

Here's one that's close by to you but prob $5K overpriced. It has the Light Weight Bucket Seats (LWBS) which is a high priced option and CPO to counter the "higher" mileage.

https://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/d/porsche-spyder-987/6687883545.html

[Oli]

Originally Posted by dghii

I don't get it...
You are on a 986 forum so the majority of members have cars that are now 14 to 21 years old. With an $80K budget, you should be looking for a newer car, maybe even on a forum that has more members with newer cars.

Most of us would be happy to sell our cars and keep you under your budget by a bit!

Fellow Rennlist member says he would be interested in the response of people on this forum, so I took up his suggestion and posted the same question.